This blog has been a lot of fun because it’s led to lots of interesting research and has truly expanded my own yoga practice. It’s also pushed my limits to test things that are new and exciting as well as pushed me to try things that perhaps I might not have tried had it not been in the pursuit of yoga greatness. So my latest conquest: Dancing Yoga. Don’t be put off if you aren’t a legitimate dancing machine. Don’t worry if you’re shy. It was a hoot. This, I can guarantee.
Years back, I did Yoga Booty Ballet, a practice developed by a yoga instructor and a ballet dancer, providing the benefits of both, without too much stress on knees and joints. I can tell you, it sure was killer and a lot of work, but it was a great workout. (I see another blog post in my future on this one.) But dancing yoga seems to be another kind of practice that is sweeping the nation, mixing the benefits of both exercises with a whole lotta fun and some great music to get the blood pumping. It also provides a little more cardio for those looking to get more sweat out of their practice. And let me tell you, sweat you will. Essentially, traditional yoga poses are incorporated with dance and movement, making for a unique experience that feels both invigorating and a little silly, all at the same time.
So, I entered my dancing yoga class with no end of trepidation. I used to practice dance but since my knee injury, it’s no longer possible and although I will dance with wild abandon, and not care who is watching, it’s usually in a dark room, not a brightly lit yoga studio. In short, I was nervous. But as the class got into full swing, and I got over my case of the nervous giggles, I felt truly welcomed into the dancing yoga fold, free of judgement and even more free to shake what my momma gave me. I couldn’t do some of the moves…they were simply too much pressure or stress on my knee. And at one point, I had to sit out because I was in too much pain, but that certainly didn’t stop my upper torso from twisting and contorting in my seat. But, what I did find is that once I let go of my inhibitions, I had an blast. I laughed. I danced. I relaxed. I conquered.
So, at the end of the day, it turns out that dancing yoga isn’t that different from regular yoga in that the benefits are the same and the other yogis are just as friendly. But what dancing yoga did do for me was change my attitude, open my mind and made me smile. And isn’t that what it’s all about? And who cares if you feel a little bit silly! I can guarantee everyone else does their first time. So while I’m not brave enough for nude yoga, I’ll definitely be returning to dancing yoga again. In fact, I think I can hear Madonna calling me now…
Kelly
